The present continuous , also called the present progressive or present imperfect , is a verb form used in modern English that combines the present tense with the continuous aspect . It is formed by the present tense form of be and the present participle of a verb. The present continuous is generally used to describe something that is taking place at the present moment and can be employed in both the indicative and subjunctive moods . It accounts for approximately 5% of verbs in spoken English.